Now I hate to make such an assumption but I’m confident in saying we all have experienced a moment in a time of no control. Such a feeling can make one feel inadequate and repressed leading to further spiral or low self-esteem and in some circumstances both.

During these times we desperately feel the need to make ourselves feel grounded. It is during these times we want to feel comfortable with how we are feeling. If you’re lucky there may be an important person in your life who you can call and speak to. However, unfortunately in this day and age it’s extremely challenging to find the support we need with the limit of resources available. Whether that be people or services that support mental health.

Other alternatives of support may be food, drugs, alcohol etc. Not all support is deemed healthy, the company we keep or the choices we make can be enabling. Further leading to serious or detrimental consequences. Quite frankly some of us keep ourselves isolated, believing we are a burden to those that truly care and want to be there for us. Another reason could be one upholding an image of perfection. In other words portraying one has it all together. But unfortunately even those that love and support us can’t always be there for us. They have their own lives and whilst they’re living their life they may miss our call which could ground us. In return they feel guilty for not being available when you’re in need and you become further intense or in some cases you hold them accountable for how you’re feeling.

Even so we’re not guaranteed to have our needs met each time. Whether they are available or not. We are responsible in handling our own emotions. It is no ones responsibility but ourselves to ground ourselves in times of need. By doing so we keep our power. This is where you, yourself come in and show up.

In times of hardship it is extremely challenging to turn inwards. As this involves focus, intention and calmness.

Here are some tips, the list below is in no specific order. I hope that in some way these are of use to you. May they help ease you, ground you and support you. However I want to make it clear that these tips are not to steer you away from seeking professional help.

• Call Samaritans – 116 123
• Text Shout UK – 85258
• Brainstorm your thoughts, feelings and possible triggers.
• Meditate, your mind may wander and your thoughts may be loud. Meditation is not about having a clear mind it is about finding stillness in the midst of chaos.
• Write down how you’re feeling, sometimes our feelings can be confusing. By writing them down we can then begin to make sense of them. Next you could reflect and sit with what you’ve wrote. How can you resolve the matters at hand to result in a better outcome?
• If you’re not someone that takes interest in writing, how about drawing? Bringing your thoughts to visuals can be a beautiful way of releasing how you feel. You don’t need to be an artist to draw. You could also add some colours, glitter etc.
• Go for a walk or run – if you have a gym membership you could go for a quick work out. This doesn’t need to be a long session although the release of endorphins depends on the type of intensity and duration of exercise. It all depends on the individual.

WRITTEN BY JAMIYLA FERGUSON

Instagram:@jamiylayla

FOUNDER/DIRECTOR @POEMSTELLIUM

www.jamiylayla.com